UCLA business school reports biggest single gift in its history

by Cheryl Devall

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UCLA's business school has snared the largest single gift in its history and it's from donors who’ve given to the university before.

It’s from the people who named the Anderson Graduate School of Management almost a quarter-century ago — John and Marion Anderson contributed about $17 million to that school over the years.

Their latest gift to their namesake is $25 million. University officials say it’ll allow the business school to broaden its offerings to students and faculty, and will enhance UCLA’s ability to attract the best international scholars in economics and management.

John Anderson attended UCLA on a scholarship, and he says he wants the opportunities he enjoyed years ago to be available for future generations.

He and his wife operate Topa Industries, a conglomeration of real estate, agriculture, auto sales and insurance businesses. Their three children have been active alumni or board participants at the Anderson School.